Best Gorilla Trekking Companies in Rwanda 2025

Are you looking forward to taking part in a Rwanda gorilla trekking experience but unsure about who can help you organize this Rwanda gorilla safari? Worry less, the best gorilla trekking company Rwanda/Gorilla companies in Rwanda, will help you organize the best trip!

These companies are not just your guides—they shape your entire journey, from securing the Rwanda gorilla permit from RDB to tailoring your gorilla trekking safari experience in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, among other combined safaris in Rwanda National Parks.

In this guide, we highlight Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd, Wild Gorilla Safaris, Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safaris, etc, among the top Rwanda gorilla trekking companies.

We explore what makes them exceptional, the services they offer, and what you should consider when selecting a safari company.

Whether you’re drawn to Parc National des Volcans for its famous gorilla families or looking to extend your adventure with golden monkey tracking, chimpanzee trekking, or cultural tours, this article will help you plan your ideal gorilla trekking trip in Rwanda.

Let us delve deep into the attributes of the top-rated gorilla trekking companies in Rwanda!

What Is a Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Company?

A Rwandan gorilla trekking company is a licensed tour operator that organizes guided gorilla trekking holidays. These companies handle logistics, including permits, accommodation, transportation, guides, and park entry, to ensure a smooth, safe, and enriching trek experience in destinations such as Parc National des Volcans in Rwanda.

Examples Of the Best Gorilla Trekking Companies in Rwanda,Africa

Some of the top gorilla trekking companies operate legally and are registered by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), emphasizing sustainable tourism, conservation, and community support.

Others include Insight Safari Holidays, Abercrombie & Kent, Go Gorilla Trekking, etc.

These offer the best custom gorilla safaris & tour packages to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park as well as other wildlife safari packages to other Rwandan game parks like Akagera, Nyungwe, Gishwati, etc., or extended safaris to neighboring countries like Kenya, Uganda, DR Congo, Tanzania safari tours, etc., in East and Central Africa.

Types Of Gorilla Trekking Travel Operators in Rwanda

Tour operators in the country fall into several categories:

1) Local Companies (Inbound)

Registered in Rwanda, they often offer a tailored gorilla tour for international travelers, e.g., from the UK, USA, Asia, etc. These local companies manage logistics within Parc National des Volcans, ensuring seamless gorilla trekking trips.

They’re ideal for booking gorilla trek permits, gorilla tracking, and cultural experiences, often blending wildlife trips across Rwanda, Uganda, and DR Congo.

2) International Tour Operators (Outbound)

These are based abroad but partner with local companies to deliver Rwandan gorilla trekking experiences. They book gorilla tours, secure permits, and coordinate with in-country guides for mountain gorilla encounters in Parc National des Volcans.

These operators also bundle Rwanda safaris with Uganda safaris or Kenya tours.

3) Domestic Tour Agencies

These operate solely within the nation. They often specialize in gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris, offering budget to luxury gorilla tours in national parks like Volcanoes NP and Nyungwe.

These Rwandan-based operators ensure authentic, community-driven gorilla safari experiences at unbeatable prices for both locals and visitors.

4) Receptive Tour Agencies

Receptive tour agencies in the nation handle on-ground services for foreign operators, including gorilla trek tour logistics, gorilla permits, and transport.

They’re experts in gorilla trek Rwandan itineraries, combining golden monkey tracking, chimpanzee tracking, and cultural experiences in the land of a thousand hills, serving as vital local support for safari adventures.

5) Specialized Safari Companies

Specialized safari companies focus exclusively on gorilla trekking and primate safaris and are known for ethical, eco-conscious tours, including natural habitat conservation. They tailor gorilla tours to explore mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Parc National des Volcans, often offering one or more than two gorilla treks, day trips, and golden monkey treks.

Therefore, it is safe to say that several companies provide gorilla trekking services in Rwanda & Uganda.

Volcanoes National Park—Rwanda’s Only Gorilla Trekking Destination

Located in the northwest of the country, Volcanoes National Park is Rwanda’s only premier destination for gorilla safaris.

With over 1000 mountain gorillas left in the world, the nation has a good number. found in over 12 gorilla families; the park offers safe, regulated access to view mountain gorillas in the wild. The terrain is mountainous and lush, sitting within the Virunga Mountains range.

In addition to gorillas, Parc National des Volcans is also known for:

Golden monkeys
Stunning volcanic landscapes
Dian Fossey’s tomb
Gorilla conservation history

Other Rwandan Wildlife safari parks include Akagera NP, Nyungwe Forest NP, and Gishwati-Mukura National Park, all of which can be visited during a gorilla trip in the country alongside Volcanoes NP.

What to Expect on a Rwanda Gorilla Trek Tour?

After morning routines such as washing, dressing, and having breakfast, your gorilla trek tour in the nation begins early in the morning with a briefing at the Volcanoes NP headquarters in Kinigi, requiring participants to be prepared for departure by 7:45 am.

You’ll be assigned a specific gorilla family to track, and a group of no more than eight people will be led by a guide to minimize stress on gorilla families. Treks can last from one to four hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location.

There are specific rules for walking with gorillas, which include going in small groups with a trained guide to make sure we watch them in a responsible and legal way, reduce stress on the gorilla families, and avoid any touching to prevent upsetting the dominant males.

Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend one hour observing their behavior, interactions, and lifestyle.

This precious moment is the highlight of any Rwandan safari/Rwanda gorilla tour—coming face-to-face with mountain gorillas in their natural forest habitat.

Gorilla permits in Rwanda cost $1,500 per person and must be booked in advance. The top gorilla trekking companies help secure these permits, arrange transport, and handle accommodation.

Rwandan gorilla treks are available year-round, with the best months being May to October and December to February, during the dry season. These months provide clearer forest trails and better gorilla viewing. However, gorilla permits are limited, so it’s advisable to book early with your chosen trekking company.

Visitors should wear proper trekking gear, including comfortable clothing in neutral colors, gloves, rain gear, gaiters, long pants & sturdy fabric shirts, long sleeves & trousers tucked into socks to protect themselves from scratches from thick vines, and durable waterproof hiking boots, as gorilla walking often involves navigating muddy, difficult terrain and may require hiking for three to four hours to locate the gorillas.

Additionally, travelers to the nation are advised to consult a healthcare provider about preventing altitude sickness and should avoid wearing perfume or cologne, as it can attract insects.

Types Of Rwanda Gorilla Safari Experiences Offered by The Top Gorilla Trekking Companies

1) One-Day Gorilla Trek Tours in Parc National des Volcans

One-day gorilla trek holidays in Parc National des Volcans are perfect for travelers short on time. Starting early from Kigali, trekkers enjoy scenic drives, a gorilla tracking briefing at Kinigi, and guided hikes to a habituated gorilla family.

These tours allow one magical hour with mountain gorillas—ideal for a compact, unforgettable gorilla trekking safari in Rwanda.

2) Multi-Day Gorilla Trekking Tours

Multi-day gorilla trekking safaris offer a full Rwandan safari experience. These tours combine gorilla trek tours, golden monkey tracking, and cultural experiences across Volcanoes NP and other parks.

Trekkers enjoy deeper wildlife immersion, multiple gorilla trek permits, and ample time with mountain gorillas while exploring Rwanda’s habitat and vibrant communities in the land of a thousand hills.

3) Cross-Country Gorilla Safaris (Uganda, Rwanda, DR Congo)

Top gorilla trekking companies organize cross-country safaris across Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

These multi-country gorilla safari packages include visits to Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park & Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, DR Congo’s Virunga National Park & Kahuzi Biega National Park, the Virunga Mountains, and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

Guests enjoy diverse gorilla treks, wildlife safaris, and experiences with endangered gorillas in multiple national parks during day trips and extended multi-country itineraries.

Other tour types include

. Rwandan Adventure Tours

Private Safari Holidays
Group Tours (big or small group)
Budget Tours
Midrange Holidays
Luxury Vacations

Other Rwanda and Uganda Safari Experiences to Combine with Gorilla Tracking Adventures

It is worth noting that top gorilla trek tour operators also offer a range of other Uganda Rwanda safari experiences that can be combined with the Rwandan gorilla tracking experiences, such as:

1) Golden Monkey Trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Mgahinga NP

After your amazing trip or gorilla trek tour in Volcanoes National Park, add a golden monkey trek for a thrilling encounter of one hour with rare primates endemic to the Virungas (golden monkeys) in their habitat, enriching your primate safari with all the sights of these agile, playful creatures, the golden monkeys among bamboo forests and misty mountains.

2) Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest and Kibale Forest

Combine your gorilla trekking safari with chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest or Uganda’s Kibale Forest, both lush national parks teeming with biodiversity, where adventurous chimp trekking trips reward you with encounters with vocal, social, and wild chimpanzees in remote rainforest terrain.

3) Wildlife Safaris in Akagera National Park

Complement your gorilla trekking great trip with classic wildlife safaris in Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s Big Five destination, where travelers enjoy game viewing of animals like elephants, lions, chimpanzees, giraffes, and hippos, among other animals, while cruising through lakes, woodlands, and savannahs teeming with African savanna animals.

4) Gorilla Habituation in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

In Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, extend your adventure with a gorilla habituation experience, spending up to four hours observing a semi-habituated gorilla family in the Bwindi Forest, allowing a deeper understanding of mountain gorillas’ behavior—an ideal option beyond a traditional gorilla trek.

5) Cultural Experiences Across Rwanda

Enhance your Rwanda gorillas safari with cultural experiences that are deeply connected to the local culture, including visits to local markets , cultural villages, and memorials like visiting Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, the Kigali Genocide Memorial, or attending Kwita Izina, the gorilla naming ceremony—connecting with local communities, honoring history, and deepening your journey beyond gorilla trekking trips alone.

6) Primate Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda

Enjoy a primate safari by combining gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and golden monkey tracking across Uganda and Rwanda—two of Africa’s top destinations for seeing great apes, diverse ecosystems, and unforgettable moments in Central Africa and East Africa’s protected zones.

7) Birding and Nature Walks in National Parks

Explore Rwanda’s lush national parks through birdwatching and nature walks, spotting vibrant species in Nyungwe, Akagera, and Volcanoes. These peaceful activities complement the thrill of gorilla trekking and offer a fuller immersion into Rwanda’s beautiful biodiversity and green landscapes.

8) Participating in Gorilla Conservation Efforts

Support gorilla conservation by booking with a local company that partners with organizations protecting mountain gorillas, offering tours that fund anti-poaching, education, and community projects, making your gorilla trekking trip a meaningful, ethical, and impactful lifetime experience for both people and wildlife.

Characteristics of a Good Gorilla Safari Company in Rwanda | What Makes a Tour Operator Stand Out?

To identify the top gorilla trekking company in the nation, look for the following traits:

1) The top gorilla trekking company in the nation is fully registered with the Rwanda Development Board and licensed to organize mountain gorilla trekking trips, including issuing gorilla trek permits legally and reliably.

2) Reputable companies specialize in mountain gorilla trekking safaris across the nation and offer expert guidance on national parks, especially Volcanoes National Park, home to mountain gorillas.

3) Experienced guides are essential for one to enjoy gorilla trekking. Top firms hire knowledgeable, trained professionals who excel in gorilla tracking, safety, and cultural experiences, ensuring a seamless and meaningful gorilla safari in Rwanda.

4) Check platforms like TripAdvisor and Google. A good mountain gorilla safari company will have consistently high ratings, real traveler reviews (positive reviews), and testimonials praising their Rwandan safari experience.

5) Flexible itineraries and open communication matter. Leading operators let travelers tailor their gorilla trekking tour while keeping travel schedules adaptable and visitor-focused.

6) Transparent pricing with no hidden costs is a must. The top gorilla trekking companies clearly outline gorilla permit fees, accommodation, and transportation in their packages.

7) These companies contribute to preserving the habitat and mountain gorillas, while also supporting local communities, wildlife conservation, and sustainable tourism in the nation.

8) Top safari firms offer real-time updates and excellent customer service, enhancing the overall trip through organized logistics and instant responses to changes or questions about the visit.

9) Companies that uphold safety standards, use reliable 4×4 safari vehicles, and prioritize guest wellbeing create safe and memorable gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris in Africa.

10) A standout localized company blends passion, integrity, and deep knowledge of Rwanda gorilla behavior, terrain, and weather, ensuring every gorilla trekking adventure feels authentic and inspiring.

Responsibilities of a Good Gorilla Trekking Travel Agent in Rwanda

A professional gorilla safari company should:

1) Before the Gorilla Trek

A reliable gorilla trekking travel operator in the nation secures your gorilla trek permits in advance, plans transport and accommodation, and offers clear communication, especially on itineraries, physical preparation, packing, etc. These local companies ensure every detail is set before your journey into Volcanoes National Park to see mountain gorillas.

2) During the Gorilla Treks

During the gorilla trekking experience, top companies provide expert guides trained in gorilla tracking, safety, and behavior. They promote ethical practices and respect for gorilla families, ensuring your gorilla safari through Volcanoes NP is both responsible and unforgettable.

3) After the Gorilla Trek

Following your gorilla trek, the best trip companies handle transfers, check your well-being, and offer post-trek advice after the Gorilla visit. Many support conservation and reinvest in communities, giving your Rwandan trip long-lasting social and environmental value beyond just the safari adventure.

Tips To Look at When Choosing a Gorilla Trek Safari Company to Plan Your Rwanda Safari

Choosing the right company will enhance your gorilla trekking experience. Keep these tips in mind:

1) Choose a Company Registered with RDB

The best trekking company in the nation is officially registered with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), ensuring legal access to gorilla trek permits and delivering ethical gorilla trekking trips in protected national parks.

2) Look for Destination Expertise and Guide Experience

Select a travel company with experienced guides who specialize in gorilla trekking, understand Rwanda’s parks intimately, and guarantee expert navigation through forests where mountain gorillas live in their habitat.

3) Review Online Ratings and Trip Feedback

Read client reviews on TripAdvisor, Google, or SafariBookings to assess travel quality, guide professionalism, and fellow travelers satisfaction—helping you confidently choose the top gorilla trekking company that the nation has available.

4) Assess Communication and Responsiveness

A good gorilla safari company replies promptly, shares clear details, and offers flexible itineraries and guides you through permit booking, and offers helpful suggestions like chimpanzee tracking or golden monkey trekking to enrich your Rwandan safari experience.

5) Evaluate Safety Standards and Emergency Plans

Reliable companies explain safety protocols for gorilla trekking tours, including emergency evacuation and health insurance recommendations. Their guides are trained in field first aid, making your journey to see gorillas and mountain gorilla families in remote areas both safe and enjoyable.

6) Compare Prices and What’s Included

Check if the total cost of the safari package includes your gorilla permit, accommodation, transport, and meals; transparent pricing prevents unexpected fees and ensures you get value without compromising your trekking experience in Africa.

7) Check for Variety in Safari Experiences

Look for companies offering guided multi-destination packages or combined gorilla trekking trips with other safari activities like Akagera wildlife safaris, cultural tours, and hikes in the Virunga Mountains—creating a well-rounded, unforgettable Rwanda safari holiday package.

8) Support Sustainable and Local Operators

Choose a local Rwanda-based operator that reinvests in conservation, protects mountain gorilla habitats, and uplifts nearby communities, ensuring your safari has a positive, lasting impact on wildlife and people in Africa.

Importance Of Using a Travel Company to Plan Your Rwanda Gorilla Treks and Extended Safari Excursions

Booking through a reputable safari company ensures:

1) For Travelers

Booking your gorilla trekking visit with a licensed local company ensures hassle-free planning, guaranteed gorilla trek permits, expert guides, and a safer Rwanda safari. You’ll enjoy wildlife safaris, spot mountain gorillas, and explore Rwanda’s gorilla habitat with trusted support.

2) For the Environment

Choosing a reputable operator promotes sustainable gorilla trekking safaris by enforcing eco-conscious practices that protect mountain gorillas, reduce trail degradation, and conserve national parks like Volcanoes NP, safeguarding gorilla families of these great apes in Rwanda’s biodiverse ecosystem.

3) For the Government

Registered operators with the Rwanda Development Board help streamline gorilla trek permits, ensure taxes support conservation and tourism growth, and align with government-approved conservation goals to protect gorillas, expand access to safari parks, and promote ethical visit Rwanda trip experiences.

4) For Locals & Communities

Travel companies employing locals empower communities with job creation, skills training, and shared revenue. A portion of gorilla trekking tours supports schools, clinics, and conservation, ensuring tourism benefits the people and preserves cultural heritage in this beautiful country- the Land of a Thousand Hills.

Comparing Rwanda and Uganda for Gorilla Trekking | Why Choose Rwanda for Gorilla Trekking?

While both Uganda and Rwanda offer unforgettable gorilla experiences, Rwanda is better suited for:

Shorter trips (close proximity to the Kigali International airport)
Luxury accommodations and lodges
Less strenuous treks compared to the steep trails of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Uganda, on the other hand, is ideal for travelers seeking:

Lower gorilla permit costs ($800) for Bwindi Forest NP and Mgahinga Gorilla NP
Larger population of mountain gorillas (459+, almost half of the world’s remaining population)
Extended game viewing safari options with Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls

How to Make Payments to a Rwanda Travel Company?

Most companies accept:

Bank Transfers (USD and local currency)
Credit/Debit Cards (with a surcharge)
Online payment platforms (PayPal, Pesapal)
Cash payments upon arrival (in rare cases)

Always ask for a signed invoice and confirm the refund and cancellation policy before paying for a visit Rwanda trip.

FAQs About Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Is Uganda or Rwanda Better for Gorilla Trekking?

Rwanda in East Africa is known for easier access, shorter hikes, and luxury accommodations, ideal if you prefer a smoother trek and shorter travel time from the airport.

The Pearl of Africa is more budget-friendly and has more gorilla families across Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla NP seen during a Uganda safari.

Therefore, depending on your preferences, both Rwanda and Uganda in East Africa provide some of the best Africa gorilla safaris.

How Much Does It Cost to Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

The main cost is the gorilla permit, priced at USD 1,500 per person. Additional expenses include accommodation, transport, guide fees, and park entry. Total trip costs typically range from $2,000–$5,000, depending on the operator and level of comfort.

Where Is the Best Place to Go Gorilla Trekking?

Volcanoes NP in Rwanda is considered one of the best places to go gorilla trekking in Africa, thanks to its conservation success, excellent infrastructure, and breathtaking views of the Virunga Mountains.

However, it is worth noting that besides Volcanoes NP, other African gorilla parks like Bwindi and Mgahinga parks in Uganda, Virunga Park and Kahuzi Biega park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo also offer remarkable gorilla trips on the African continent.

When Should I Go Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

The best time to go on a Rwanda gorilla trek is during the dry seasons, which are June to September and December to February. Trails are less slippery, and visibility in the forests is clearer during these months.

It is worth noting that these dry season/periods are also perfect for extended Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda Rwanda trips, to see rare animals and landscapes in Africa during game viewing excursions.

Partnering with one of Rwanda’s top gorilla trekking companies ensures an unforgettable journey through Volcanoes NP, offering expert guides, ethical practices, and a safari experience that supports conservation and uplifts local communities. Don’t miss your chance to explore the natural habitat of mountain gorillas in Rwanda—book with the best today!